Patient's question:
Okay, here is the translation following your instructions:Okay, how should I give him fish oil to prevent rickets? I used to take Icon, but I ate little and was afraid it wasn't effective, and I'm afraid of poisoning from long-term use. How is it generally appropriate to give the child supplements long-term? Thank you!
Doctor's answer:
Hello, fish oil is mainly rich in vitamins A and D. The main function of vitamin D is to promote the absorption of calcium and phosphorus by the intestinal mucosa. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to impaired calcification of bone tissue, resulting in rickets, which is characterized by irritability, excessive sweating, restlessness, and skeletal changes.Recommendations:
1. Generally, a preventive dose of 400 units of vitamin D should be given daily starting from 2-3 weeks after birth and continued for 2-3 years. This is especially important for premature infants, twins, and children with factors that may lead to a deficiency in vitamins A and D, who may need additional supplementation of these vitamins.
2. After the age of 3, the growth rate of children slows down, and their dietary variety and outdoor activities increase. In most cases, additional supplementation with fish oil is no longer necessary.